The role of history education in countering disinformation and encouraging civic engagement

Cross-referencing data from multiple sources to verify facts, improve accuracy and give more complete context is essential to teaching history. This is especially relevant in the digital age, when false information can spread quickly. Teaching practices tackling different aspects of disinformation can build resilient, knowledgeable and involved communities.

Source investigation

Source inquiry is a crucial skill for understanding historical events. It helps students assess the reliability of information by identifying main and secondary sources, understanding their nature and origin and evaluating their bias and reliability.

Students can develop critical thinking skills by examining historical accounts and contemporary sources of information for bias and false information. Projects like Faktabaari (FactBar) can help students recognise propaganda tactics, manipulative strategies, author perspective, intent and potential bias in media by providing information and tools for teaching fact-checking and critical media literacy.

The Learning for Peace project has created practical recommendations for teachers using stories recorded about past conflicts. The materials guide students in examining historical narratives and understanding the impact of past conflicts. This critical examination helps students spot and counter populist and aggressive political trends.

Civic engagement and acting against hate speech

Historical perspectives on hate speech and social injustice can encourage the development of civic responsibility. Teaching the history of marginalised groups gives a more representative portrayal of the past and helps develop students’ appreciation of diversity and diverse societal contributions.

Projects like Footprints for Freedom can teach the history of continuing fights for freedom and rights, motivating students to participate in democracy and civic activities.

The recently held European Citizens’ Panel on tackling hatred in society looked at the root causes of hatred and ways to address them, highlighting how historical and current conflicts fuel hate across generations. Active cross-policy efforts, including through history education, can help break the negative cycle of these divisions. 

With this in mind, the Say no to extremism project teaches young people about the background of racism, prejudice and extremism. Engaging with historical events through the project can inspire them to take proactive measures for solving problems with tolerance and respect.